Nova Scotia OKs gas-trucked natural gas

HALIFAX – The Nova Scotia government has approved the delivery of compressed natural gas by trucks to universities, hospitals and other big energy customers.

Energy Minister Charlie Parker says the move could mean savings between 35 and 50 per cent for some customers without harming the interests of Heritage Gas, the province’s sole distributor of natural gas via pipeline.

The government says the compressed natural gas will only be available to large customers that don’t have access to the Heritage Gas pipeline, such as Minas Basin Pulp and Power in Hantsport.

Parker says the government has accepted a report that recommends not regulating the distribution of compressed natural gas by truck.

He says a number of companies have already expressed an interest in delivering the gas starting as early as next year, including Heritage Gas and Irving.

Parker says while the move makes sense for large customers, it won’t likely be viable for residential customers given the hefty cost of delivery and the installation of necessary equipment.